Ag News Roundup: October 10th, 2020
October 11, 2020
In today’s Ag News Roundup, food transparency good for U.S. ag, conservationists defend forest thinning in Washington, drought continues in Northwest, additional agritourism opens in Washington, cattle prices see new high.
Health is a Boost for Agriculture
From Successful Farming, food transparency, specifically the healthiness of certain foods, continues to create opportunities for farmers. Additionally, consumers want to know where food comes from, which could be a boon for U.S. agriculture.
Read More
Conservationists Want Forest Thinning
In north-central Washington, conservation groups are defending plans to thin as well as control burn federal forests. From the Capital Press, specific groups have urged lawmakers and a Washington judge to dismiss lawsuits that would stop projects aimed at controlling forest fires.
Read More
Drought Continues in Oregon and Washington
From the Pacific Northwest Ag Network, extreme drought has been declared in Washington and is expected to expand in Oregon. The USDA reports that over 6% of Washington and 34% of Oregon are under extreme drought.
Agritourism Open for Business in Much of Washington
Washington’s governor has relaxed restrictions on agritourism in counties that are still under Phase 1 restrictions due to COVID-19. This includes u-pick farms, Christmas tree lots, and other such industries.
All U.S. Regions Reporting High Cattle Trade
According to Ag Web, large volumes of cattle traded at higher prices in all regions in late September. A report states that cattle on feed were up 4% from this time in 2019.
Read More